Empty Bowls

An example of a charitable idea that truly caught on, Empty Bowls brings together potters, educators, caterers and chefs in an effort to combat hunger. Devised in a Michigan high school in 1990 and now under the umbrella of the North Carolina nonprofit Imagine Render Group, the “international grassroots effort” follows a similar format in events across the nation: members of the community are invited to purchase a ceramic bowl and enjoy a simple meal of soup and bread, with proceeds benefiting organizations working to end hunger and food insecurity. Launched in 2000 by the San Antonio Potters Guild, the local chapter donated more than $58,000 to SAMMinistries in 2014. The 15th annual event brings an array of handcrafted ceramic bowls and soups from area eateries (from Bill Miller to Biga on the Banks) to the grounds of longtime host venue the Southwest School of Art.